2027: Atiku Stalls ADC Membership Over Jonathan Comeback Rumours, Internal Party Power Struggles

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has delayed his planned formal entry into the African Democratic Congress (ADC), amidst mounting speculation that former President Goodluck Jonathan may join the 2027 presidential race under the same party.

Atiku, who recently exited the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following prolonged internal wrangling, was scheduled to collect his ADC membership card during a ceremony in his hometown of Jada, Adamawa State, on Wednesday, August 6. However, the event has been postponed indefinitely without official explanation from his camp.

Sources told Sunday PUNCH that the delay might stretch into September, with Atiku reportedly waiting for some All Progressives Congress (APC) governors planning to defect to the ADC.

“From the way things are going, due to one issue or the other, the event may get to September. He (Atiku) said that he was waiting for some APC governors who are planning to join ADC to decamp before his event in Jada,” said Shehu, a close associate of Atiku.

Jonathan, Obi, and ADC Tensions

Party insiders suggest Atiku’s hesitation may also be influenced by internal tensions within the ADC and the increasing influence of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. A national chieftain of the party, who spoke anonymously, alleged that Obi’s movement has effectively taken control of ADC’s structures in the South, posing a direct threat to Atiku’s influence.

“From all indications, if things don’t work out for Atiku in the coming weeks, I see him defecting to the Social Democratic Party (SDP),” the source said.

He added that former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai’s suspension from the SDP was likely intended to prevent the formation of a “political cartel” if Atiku joins the party.

Support groups loyal to Atiku within the ADC are also reportedly considering exiting the party if the internal crisis remains unresolved—another signal that Atiku’s position within the party is far from secure.

Jonathan’s Possible Return

Fueling further uncertainty is the rumoured comeback of former President Goodluck Jonathan. An ADC principal confirmed ongoing talks with Jonathan, noting that the former president is responding positively and would not consider returning under the PDP banner.

“We are talking to him, and we are getting a positive response so far. He knows the problems in the PDP. Does he want to wrestle with Wike who has the grip on the party?” the source said. “The leaders of the coalition have met him about three times, and the ex-President appreciates their efforts to rescue the country from the current economic quagmire occasioned by President Bola Tinubu’s bad policies.”

Asked if Jonathan would receive an automatic presidential ticket, the chieftain replied, “When we get to the bridge, we will know how to cross it.”

ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi offered a cautious comment, saying, “ADC is open to everybody, and we look forward to having every Nigerian who is ready to rescue the country from this hardship.”

Meanwhile, Jonathan’s campaign posters have begun circulating on social media, pairing him with possible running mates like Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Patience Jonathan: “No Return to Aso Rock”

However, in a notable contradiction, Jonathan’s wife, Patience, has publicly ruled out a return to the presidency. During an award event in Abuja on May 11, 2025, she pledged support for First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and discouraged political speculation around her husband.

“All the way, we are with you (Tinubu). No shaking. We will follow. Direct us, and we will follow. Because there is only one president at a time,” she said. “I believe in turn-by-turn. When it’s your turn, I will support you. When it’s not your turn, step back—so that the country can move forward.”

Atiku’s Camp: “He’s Not Afraid of Jonathan or Obi”

Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, downplayed the speculation and insisted the former vice president is not backing down or threatened by any potential contenders.

“Nothing has changed; we don’t want to give mischief-makers an opportunity. Atiku Abubakar registered as a member of the ADC in Jada ward of Jada Local Government Area, Adamawa State, and the process is still on,” Ibe stated.

He reiterated Atiku’s democratic values: “Atiku is a democrat, and he cannot be threatened by anyone’s ambition. The beauty of democracy is that the minority will have its say, and then the majority will have its way.”

Ibe also criticized President Tinubu’s leadership style, claiming that the administration is steering the country toward a one-party system.

“Atiku will not be coming from where he is, where he feels that what Tinubu and the APC are doing is not democratic, and would want to prevent anyone from declaring their ambition,” he said.

He emphasized Atiku’s focus on working with “men and women of goodwill” to offer Nigerians a credible alternative to the APC.

“So, the more the merrier—it is democracy at work. Let people who feel they have something to offer join the race,” he concluded.

Aregbesola Declares Support for ADC in Osun

In a separate development, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola expressed optimism about the ADC’s prospects in the state during a reception for ex-Speaker Najeem Salaam’s 60th birthday in Osogbo.

“I don’t want to offend the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Egbedun, and the representative of the governor. But I am very sure that it is our own (ADC) that God will support,” Aregbesola said.

Speaker Egbedun praised Salaam’s leadership and influence, while Salaam himself called for a peaceful electoral process, pledging to continue advocating for “politics without bitterness.”